Many parents and caregivers have been interested in Equine-assisted Therapy for their children. This therapeutic treatment has significant results and is growing quickly. It has many benefits as well as being just plain fun. Horse therapy is available to children and teens with a variety of healthcare needs however, there are some points to consider when providing this therapy for a child or teen with paralysis.
Much like dogs, horses like people and want to interact with them. Horses are very in tune with humans and their emotions. They can sense happiness, fear, and physical needs among other emotional and physical feelings.
Horse therapy is provided by individuals who are educated in the treatment. These individuals have skills in assessments and advancing treatment sessions at the appropriate pace. They will introduce the child/teen to the horse, and create an interaction and eventual bond, before moving to riding. They also can direct a pleasant parting at the end of each treatment and at the conclusion of the therapy program.
The benefits of horse therapy are many. Creating a bond with a living animal is very powerful. Riding can help improve balance, breathing, posture, and muscle strength. Muscles, especially at the zone of transition (level of paralysis) can become stronger. The bouncing of the ride can shake the bladder which helps reduce infection and the bowel which assists in faster bowel programs. Mental health is promoted through confidence.